AboutEndodontics

Endodontics is the area of dentistry that deals with the nerves of the teeth (the pulp, the internal portion of the tooth). Root canals are probably the most notorious procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics. When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves inside the root of the tooth. The damaged nerves need to be removed in order to save the tooth. If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that can include bone loss in the jaw.

The area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to start the procedure. An opening is made in the tooth so the dentist will then be able to remove the damaged tissue and clean the canal. After the damaged tissue has been removed it is very important to thoroughly wash out the root canal system. Finally, the space is typically filled with a sealant called gutta percha. It is highly recommended that a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure is restored with a crown. This will improve the appearance of the tooth and will protect it from further damage.

"Root canal" has become a scary term for dental patients to hear but the benefits of the procedure and wonderful advances in technology have made it much less "scary". Local anesthetics and proper pain medication allow the procedure to be performed with little to no discomfort. Over the counter medications (Advil or Tylenol) are usually enough to relieve any discomfort afterwards but Dr. Struble can prescribe additional medications (if necessary). The procedure will also relieve you from pain caused by the infection allowing you to enjoy the foods you love without the pain from cold, heat, or chewing. If you are experiencing discomfort please call us for an examination today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't my Dentist do root canals?

Your general dentist sometimes refers patients when the diagnosis is complicated or when treatment is more difficult than normal. The internal anatomy of teeth can be very challenging and complex. New CT technology is extremely helpful in diagnosing and treating teeth that require an endodontic procedure.

Aside from providing treatment, Dr. Struble's role is also that of educator. It is important that patients understand why they require treatment, what treatment involves and what they can do to ensure the best possible outcome. Dr. Struble believes that a properly informed patient has the best chance of achieving the optimal result.

We utilize CBCT 3D scanning technology to give us a "road map" of your tooth before we even begin. This image gives us a view that is not possible with conventional digital X-rays. Dr. Struble also uses a 3D microscope (True Vision) where he can view your tooth on a 50" 4k 3D television.

Also, we are proud and excited to be the first in the area to offer the new Gentle Wave procedure. It cleans and irrigates the canals much better than before and there is much less canal instrumentation or "drilling".

What is Endodontics?

Endodontics is an area of Dentistry that deals with diseases of the dental pulp and its supporting structures.

In order to understand Endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of a tooth. Teeth have several layers. The outside layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel. Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which has at its center a soft tissue known as the dental pulp.

The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after the pulp is removed.

If the pulp is damaged in any way then it must be removed. The removal of this damaged tissue is what many refer to as a "root canal" procedure.

Why would I need Endodontic treatment?

Signs and Symptoms that treatment is necessary

How Can Endodontic Treatment help me?

The dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans the canal system and then seals the prepared space. Most treatment is now performed in a single appointment ranging from 45-90 minutes (depending on the number of canals). Once treatment is completed, you may be instructed to return to your general dentist for permanent reconstruction. The restoration of the tooth is an important part of treatment because it seals the cleaned canals from the oral environment, protects the tooth and restores it to function.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

Toothache pain is the main reason for patients seeking treatment. Fortunately, modern anesthetics can make the procedure pain free in most cases. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don't wait. When caught early, treatment should feel no different than having a regular filling. For the first few days after treatment, there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Most of the time over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil) and/or Tylenol are recommended for 2 to 3 days. We can prescribe other medications but they are often not necessary.